y Messrs.
Francis A. Hall and Nathaniel B. Milton, of Monroe, La. The object
of this invention is to furnish an implement so constructed as to
bar off a row of plants, chop the plants to a stand, and dirt the
plants at one passage along the row, and which shall be simple,
convenient, and reliable.

Mr. Hermann H. Cammann, of New York city, has patented a basket so
constructed that it can be compactly folded for transportation or
storage.

Messrs. David H. Seymour and Henry R. A. Boys, of Barrie, Ontario,
Canada, have patented an improvement in that class of devices that
are designed to be applied to steam cylinders for introducing oil or
tallow into the cylinder and upon the cylinder valves. It consists
of an oil cup provided with a gas escape, a scum breaker, an
interior gauge, and an adjustable feed pipe extension.

Mr. John H. Conrad, of Charlotte, Mich., has patented a portable
sliding gate which will dispense with hinges and which can be used
in any width of opening. It may be readily connected with a
temporary opening or gap made in the fence.

An improved reversible pole and shaft for vehicles has been
patented by Mr. Francis M. Heuett, of Jug Tavern, Ga. The object of
this invention is to so combine the parts of shafts for vehicles
that they may be readily transposed and re-employed to form the
tongue without removing the thill arms or hounds from the Mr.
William Jones, of Kalamazoo, Mich., has patented an improved box
which is useful for various purposes, but is particularly intended
for shipping fourth class mail matter. The feature of special
novelty is the means of fastening the hinged cover.

Mr. Louis J. Halbert, of Brooklyn, N. Y., has patented an improved
slate cleaner, which is simple, convenient, and effective.

An improved boot, which is simple in its make, fits well, and is
convenient to put on and take off, has been patented by Ellene A.
Bailey, of St. Charles, Mo. The boot is provided with side seams,
one of which is open at its lower end, and is provided with lacing,
buttons, or a like device, so that it can be closed when the boot is
on the wearer's foot.

* * * * *

THE HERCULES BEETLE.

In the handsome engraving herewith are shown the male and female of
the Hercules beetle (_Dynastes hercules_) of Brazil. The family of
the _Dynastidae_ comprises some of the largest and most beautiful of
the beetle race, and all of them are remarkable for enorm